Eat Well 2 Be Well!

The latest foodie fade: farm/garden - to- table movement is not new. It is really southern-based old-school cooking. This concept was diligently practiced by many Afro-centric elders. Back in our day, you ate well to be well. This meant- the majority of the time you and your family ate fresh. Processed food was not really considered food. It had no sustenance. We also ate complete meals. Thus, super always meant fish, fowl or perhaps beef accompanied by at least two sides. Something from the ground, on the ground and/or above the ground to make a wholesome, i.e. blended cooked meal. Blended cooking was pleasing to our palates as well as pleasing to our bodies. For those of my Traditionalist generation (1922-1945) these were time-honored agrarian culinary practices. In my formative years, an elder parent tending their small patch of un-urbanized land also meant fulfilling a Patriotic duty. During that era, Victory Gardens were trending.

Farm-to-table is fundamental to culinary aficionados of the Gullah-Gee Chee Nation. Their traditional costal cuisine has always emphasized home-grown, locally-sourced and farm-fresh foodstuffs. The catch of the day: fish or fowl was always accompanied with fresh garden veggies. These meals were healthier and tastier. Their simple seasonal-quality ingredients were also cooked with either an enhancement of fresh leafy condiments (Herbs) and bark or seed (Spices). It was not unusual for what today is identified as 'superfoods' such as apples blackberries, ginger, honey, buckwheat, rolled oats, tomatoes, okra and nuts to be utilized in meal preparations solely for their nutritional benefit(s).

Moreover, some pantry staples such as: honey, garlic, ginger, Cinnamon, Turmeric, onions, lemon and Coconut Oil were also know to have healing properties. These superfoods were also often incorporated into entrees and side dishes. For your consideration, try frying chicken breast seasoned with garlic and Turmeric in Coconut Oil and accompanied by a side dish of Brown & Wild Rice and a Skillet Collard Greens with Cumin & Tomatoes. This is an excellent example of blended cooking.

In keeping with the upsurge in healthier eating, many world-famous chefs, foodies and home cooks have now begun to also include more ancient grains in their menu selections. For many food historians Buckwheat which is high in vitamins B6 and niacin as well as Quinoa which was called 'mother grain' by ancient Incans could both be 'labeled' as old/new superfoods. Buckwheat is neither a wheat nor a cereal grain, but in fact a fruit seed plant cultivated for its 'grain-like seeds'. Noted for its gluten-free properties, it is an excellent flour substitute for individuals adhering to wheat sensitive diets. Whether a Southern fare which includes honey-buttered biscuits, spicy hot-sauced chicken wings and two healthy sides or hot-grilled Blueberry Buckwheat Pancakes with crispy oven-fried pork bacon/turkey strips, a good home-chef can always accommodate unexpected dietary request if they have a well-stocked pantry.

Although the times have changed, the concept of 'eat well 2 be well' has not changed. For a large segment of the American population, eating more nutritiously can be achieved by initiating and committing to lifestyle choices that are beneficial for total well-being. If you reside in a 'food desert' area, become proactive. Diet-related health challenges are problematic, but not unsolvable. (1) Join community -activist groups that support access to healthy food; (2) support food/drug legislation that increases food stamp allotments for at risk individuals; and (3) plant a garden in your backyard, on your windowsill or your kitchen counter because good fresh food is good for the body.

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AuthorC.A. Lofton is an award-winning African-American poet /writer and an established Transitional Celebrant. Additionally, she is also a noted proponent of Positive Thinking. Throughout her literary career, Ms. Lofton has remained a tireless champion of community initiatives that embraces,values and fosters an appreciation of Afro-centric creativity. Her Blended Activities Blog post are culturally responsive and focused upon creative growth and personal empowerment. C A enjoys playing Gin Rummy , entertaining and being an old -school home chef.​.